1998 Subaru Impreza Overview
The 1998 Subaru Impreza, a compact car from a brand known for its distinctive all-wheel-drive systems, offered a compelling blend of practicality, capability, and a touch of sportiness, particularly in its higher trims. This generation of the Impreza (the GC/GF/GM chassis) was in its first generation, making the 1998 model a relatively early iteration of a platform that would become legendary, especially for rally enthusiasts.
Highlights
-
Engine: The standard engine across most trims was a 2.2-liter horizontally-opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine. This engine produced around 137 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque. The key characteristic of this engine layout is its low center of gravity, contributing to improved handling and stability. For those seeking more performance, the Impreza 2.5 RS featured a more powerful 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder engine, delivering approximately 165 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. This engine offered a noticeable increase in acceleration and overall responsiveness.
-
Safety Features:
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Standard on all 1998 Impreza models, Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provided enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions, from wet roads to snow. It mechanically distributes power to all four wheels, offering a significant advantage over front-wheel-drive competitors.
- Driver and Passenger Front Airbags: Standard safety equipment designed to cushion occupants in a frontal collision.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Available on certain trims, ABS prevented wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control and reducing stopping distances on slippery surfaces.
- Side-Impact Door Beams: Reinforced structures within the doors designed to absorb and dissipate energy from side collisions.
-
Trim Summary:
- Impreza Outback Sport: Positioned as a more rugged, lifestyle-oriented model, the Outback Sport featured a slightly raised suspension, protective body cladding, and often unique interior/exterior styling cues. It offered a more adventurous aesthetic and a bit more ground clearance for light off-road excursions.
- Impreza 2.5 RS: This was the performance-oriented trim. It distinguished itself with a more potent 2.5-liter engine, sport-tuned suspension, distinctive gold alloy wheels (a popular visual signature), aggressive body styling including a hood scoop and rear spoiler, and often upgraded interior materials. It was the closest you could get to a "rally car for the street" within the standard Impreza lineup at the time.
- Other Trims (e.g., L, LS): These represented the more mainstream, everyday commuter versions of the Impreza, typically equipped with the 2.2-liter engine and offering a balance of comfort and practicality.
-
Other Notable Aspects:
- Boxer Engine Sound: The unique "burble" and sound profile of Subaru's boxer engines were a distinct characteristic that appealed to many enthusiasts.
- Durable and Practical Interior: While not luxurious, the interiors were generally well-built and focused on functionality, with ample storage and comfortable seating for its class.
- Compact Footprint: The Impreza's compact size made it maneuverable in urban environments and easy to park.
What to Expect
Owning a 1998 Subaru Impreza typically involves an experience characterized by reliability and a certain degree of enthusiast appeal.
-
Typical Ownership Experience: Owners often praise the Impreza for its tenacious all-wheel-drive system, which instills confidence in all weather conditions. The car is generally considered to be a dependable daily driver, especially the models equipped with the 2.2-liter engine. The driving dynamics are engaging, particularly in the RS trim, with its responsive steering and well-balanced chassis. It's a car that can handle daily commutes with ease and provide a fun driving experience on twisty roads.
-
Maintenance: Like any vehicle of this age, regular maintenance is crucial for longevity. Common maintenance items include oil changes, filter replacements, brake services, and tire rotations. Due to the boxer engine layout, accessing some components can be slightly more involved than in a conventional inline-four engine, potentially leading to slightly higher labor costs for certain services. However, parts are generally readily available. Be prepared for potential age-related issues such as aging rubber hoses and seals, exhaust system wear, and suspension components needing replacement over time.
-
Insurance: Insurance costs for a 1998 Impreza can vary significantly depending on the trim level, your driving record, location, and the insurance provider. The 2.5 RS, with its performance-oriented nature and potentially higher repair costs for specialized parts, might command slightly higher premiums than the base models. It's always advisable to get insurance quotes before purchasing.
Potential Considerations
While the 1998 Impreza has many strengths, potential buyers should be aware of certain aspects.
- Head Gasket Issues: A well-known concern with many Subaru boxer engines of this era (and beyond) is the potential for head gasket leaks. While not every car will experience this, it's a common repair that can be costly. Signs of this issue include coolant leaks, white smoke from the exhaust, or an oily film in the coolant. Thorough inspection and a pre-purchase check are highly recommended.
- Rust and Corrosion: As with many vehicles from the late 1990s, especially those driven in areas with road salt, rust can be a concern. Areas to inspect include the wheel wells, rocker panels, and the underside of the vehicle.
- Interior Wear and Tear: The interiors, while generally durable, can show signs of wear on seats, door panels, and dashboards after over two decades of use.
- Limited Modern Features: As a 1998 model, don't expect advanced infotainment systems, sophisticated driver-assistance features, or the same level of sound insulation as modern vehicles.
Overall Summary
The 1998 Subaru Impreza stands out as a capable and enjoyable compact car, particularly for its standard all-wheel-drive system and the sporty allure of the 2.5 RS trim. It offers a practical solution for everyday driving with the added benefit of confidence-inspiring traction. While potential buyers should be mindful of age-related maintenance and the possibility of common Subaru issues like head gasket leaks, a well-maintained 1998 Impreza can still be a rewarding vehicle to own, offering a unique driving character and a robust foundation for those seeking a dependable all-weather compact car.